Finally, the World Cup winner added his assertion that the Welshman’s potential transfer ‘fee is not an issue’. Well, well, well – who exactly is it not an issue for?

Surely £60 million would be quite a sizeable issue for, just as an example, Borussia Dortmund who have spent just over that amount of money on transfers of 29 players over the last 5 years. It wouldn’t, however, be ‘an issue’ for, just as an example, Real Madrid who, by complete coincidence, are Zidane current employers.

Zinedine Zidane is Real Madrid’s director of football and Tottenham fans, along with Gareth Bale, should beware the groundwork being laid here. Real Madrid have been the most audacious chasers of Welshman’s signature and this will persist right the way through the summer, mark my words.

By announcing to the world that ‘£60 million’ is not ‘an issue’, Real Madrid, via Zidane, have sent Spurs a message – possible one they can’t refuse. That message reads: we want Bale at all costs.

If the La Liga giants do put in a bid of that proportion, Andre Villas-Boas along with Daniel Levy might have to resign themselves to letting the double PFA Player of the Year winner go.

To compound Spurs’ tricky situation, the more Real Madrid and Zidane talk, the more Bale’s head will be turned – he can’t possibly ignore the compliments of such a football legend.

Real Madrid have stated their position on the matter – we’re coming for Gareth Bale. It’s not a matter of money, but rather just a matter of time.

Jenny Leigh

Jennifer is a freelance writer and filmmaker from London with a great passion for football - the game, the business, and the culture. Jennifer hopes to provide readership with a high standard of news, analysis, and opinion over a range of football events, stories, and issues.